Fractures of the hand, scaphoid and wrist

Phalangeal (phalanx) fractures, Metacarpal fractures

I think I have a fracture in my finger or hand. What should I do?
The first step is a careful assessment and examination followed by an x-ray in the clinic.

Will I need surgery?
Hopefully not. Many fractures can be treated without surgery using specially made splints. If the fragments have moved into a poor position, surgery might be needed to improve the chances of a successful recovery.

If I do need surgery, does it have to be done immediately?
No, most surgery can be safely done any time in the first 2 weeks following the fracture while still achieving an excellent result.

Scaphoid fractures

I think I have a scaphoid fracture. What should I do?
The first step is a careful assessment and examination followed by an x-ray in the clinic.

Scaphoid fractures can be difficult to diagnose with x-rays so sometimes an MRI scan is needed to confirm the diagnosis.

If I do have a scaphoid fracture, what happens next?
The majority of scaphoid fractures can be treated without surgery in a plaster or some kind of splint. If the fragments have moved into a poor position, surgery might be needed to improve the chances of healing.

If I do need surgery, does it have to be done immediately?
No, most surgery can be safely done any time in the first 2 weeks following the fracture while still achieving an excellent result.

Wrist (distal radius/ ulna fractures)

I think I’ve broken my wrist. What should I do?
The first step is a careful assessment and examination followed by an x-ray in the clinic.

Sometimes a CT scan is helpful.

If I do have a wrist fracture, what’s the treatment?
This depends on the position of the bones. If everything is well aligned, we can hopefully avoid surgery and treat the fracture with a plaster or splint. If the fragments have moved significantly, surgery might be needed. This is usually done using a plate and screws.

If I do need surgery, does it have to be done immediately?
No, most surgery can be safely done any time in the first 2 weeks following the fracture while still achieving an excellent result.